Venom X20 vs X22 125cc: Which Motorcycle Should You Buy?
Quick answer: choose the Venom X20 if you want compact Grom-style proportions, 12-inch wheels and a naked-bike look. Choose the Venom X22 if you prefer full sport-bike fairings, larger 17-inch wheels and a lower listed seat height. Both use a 125cc engine and 4-speed manual transmission, but they deliver a noticeably different fit and visual experience.
For a first motorcycle, those differences matter more than simply choosing the model with the more aggressive bodywork. This comparison uses current Venom Motorsports USA product information checked on August 18, 2026 so you can decide which platform better matches your size, riding goals and budget.
Venom X20 vs X22 at a Glance
| Feature | Venom X20 | Venom X22 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 125cc 4-stroke single-cylinder, carbureted | 125cc 4-stroke, carbureted |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual | 4-speed manual |
| Wheel size | 12-inch | 17-inch |
| Listed seat height | 31 in | 27.7 in |
| Listed net weight | 250 lb | 250 lb |
| Listed rider capacity | 330 lb | 330 lb |
| Current price | $1,799.99 | $1,999.99 |
| Inventory shown when checked | 55 | 41 |
| Best fit | Compact naked-bike feel | Full-fairing sport-bike feel |
Price and inventory were checked in the Venom Motorsports USA Shopify catalog on August 18, 2026 and can change. Always verify the current product page before ordering.
Why Choose the Venom X20?
The X20 is the more compact-looking choice. Its 12-inch wheels and exposed Grom-style bodywork give it the mini-motorcycle character many riders specifically want. That can make the bike feel visually less intimidating to a new rider while still providing a traditional clutch-and-shift experience through its 4-speed manual transmission.
The current product specification lists a 31-inch seat height, 250-pound net weight and 330-pound rider capacity. It also uses front and rear disc brakes and an inverted front fork. If your priority is a lightweight-looking city-style motorcycle with simple bodywork and a strong value price, the X20 makes a clear case for itself.
View the Venom X20 125cc motorcycle
Why Choose the Venom X22?
The X22 goes in the opposite visual direction. Full Ninja-inspired fairings and 17-inch wheels make it look and feel more like a traditional full-size sport motorcycle. The current specification lists a 27.7-inch seat height, which is lower than the X20’s listed 31-inch measurement even though both models are listed at 250 pounds net weight.
That combination can appeal to riders who want the sport-bike appearance without jumping straight into a larger-displacement motorcycle. The X22 still uses a 125cc carbureted engine and 4-speed manual transmission, so the core learning experience remains focused on clutch control, shifting, braking and low-speed confidence.
View the Venom X22 125cc motorcycle
The Biggest Difference: Compact Mini Bike vs Sport Bike Proportions
Engine size alone does not tell you how a motorcycle will feel underneath you. The X20’s 12-inch wheels create a distinctly compact platform, while the X22’s 17-inch wheels and full fairings give it a more conventional street-bike profile. A rider who loves the mini-moto look may prefer the X20 immediately. A rider who has always wanted a small-displacement sport bike will likely be more drawn to the X22.
Do not choose solely from photos. Compare the listed seat height, wheel size and riding position with your inseam and comfort level. Rider capacity is not the same as guaranteed physical fit.
Which Is Better for a Beginner?
Both can make sense for a beginner who specifically wants to learn a manual motorcycle. Neither removes clutch or shifting work. That is important because a shopper looking for a twist-and-go experience should instead compare Venom’s automatic motorcycle collection.
Between these two, the better beginner choice depends on fit. The X20 offers the smaller-wheel mini-moto format. The X22 offers the lower listed seat height and larger wheels. If possible, use the measurements rather than assuming one is easier simply because it looks smaller.
Price: Is the X22 Worth the Extra $200?
At the time of this review, the X20 was listed at $1,799.99 and the X22 at $1,999.99, a $200 difference. The extra money does not buy a larger engine or additional transmission gears. It primarily moves you into the X22’s full-fairing design and 17-inch-wheel platform.
If your goal is the most affordable entry into these two 125cc manual models, the X20 is the better value on current price. If sport-bike styling and larger wheels are central to why you are buying, the X22 can justify the difference.
Before You Order
Review the full 125cc motorcycle collection if you want to compare these models with other 125cc choices. You can also review current financing options, shipping information and warranty terms before checkout.
Licensing, registration, insurance, equipment and road-use requirements can vary by state and locality. Confirm the rules that apply where you live before operating any motorcycle on public roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the X20 and X22 both 125cc motorcycles?
Yes. The current Venom Motorsports USA product pages list both as 125cc gas motorcycles.
Are both motorcycles manual?
Yes. Both are currently listed with 4-speed manual transmissions, so riders use a clutch and shift gears.
Which one has the lower listed seat height?
The X22 is currently listed at 27.7 inches, while the X20 is listed at 31 inches. Actual comfort still depends on rider proportions, footwear, suspension compression and riding position.
Which one has larger wheels?
The X22 uses 17-inch wheels, while the X20 uses 12-inch wheels. This is one of the clearest differences between the two platforms.
Which one is cheaper right now?
When checked on August 18, 2026, the X20 was $1,799.99 and the X22 was $1,999.99. Check the live product pages for current pricing.
Final Verdict
Buy the X20 if you want the lower current price, 12-inch mini-moto proportions and naked styling. Buy the X22 if you want 17-inch wheels, full sport-bike fairings and the lower listed seat height. Because the engines and 4-speed manual transmissions are closely matched, the decision is really about fit, proportions, styling and budget.
